Husky racers on their marks (From Warrington Guardian)

Husky racers on their marks

A NORTHWICH couple are gearing up for a racing event with a difference this weekend.

Dog lovers Andrea and Steve Taylor, of Highbank Road, will be the ones taken for a run when they and their six Siberian Huskies take part in the 2005 Aviemore Sled Dog Rally.

This will be the sixth year that both Andrea, 39, and Steve, 41, have travelled up to the Scottish Highlands to take part in the rally.

The event attracts more than 200 teams and more than 1,000 sled dogs.

Steve and Andrea have each entered a three-dog team this year.

Andrea said: "All of the best in the country compete at Aviemore - there's a lot more competition.

"I wanted a husky since I was little and my mum wouldn't let me have one - she said I could wait until I got my own house.

"Eventually I joined the husky club, went to a couple of events and was hooked.

"Your lifestyle completely changes, as you have strict training schedules and have to get fitter yourself."

The couple hope there will be enough snow at the rally to use sleds.

If there isn't, they will be pulled along at speeds of 20mph or more on three-wheeled rigs.

Andrea added: "We prefer sleds, but you need the weather."

Husky racers on their marks